NGOs press miner to quit E. Java protected forests

An alliance of pro-environment organizations and residents of Banyuwangi and Jember, East Java have pledged to wage an all-out war to oust a gold mining company seeking approval to mine in protected forests in the two regencies, The Jakarta Post reported.

Kappala Indonesia, Green Curve and Street Legislature for Democracy (Derajad) have already had the Banyuwangi regency legislature drop its recommendation of PT Indo Multi Niaga (PT IMN)'s planned exploitation.

IMN partners with Australian mining firm Intrepid Mines Limited.

According to the report, IMN is controlled by businessman Jusuf Merukh.

"Our movement is still focusing on political pressure on the Banyuwangi regency until its recommendation is dropped and the company's exploration license, which expires in July 2009, will not be extended," coordinator of Kappala Indonesia for the Banyuwangi region, Rosdi Bachtiar Martad, said recently.

IMN presented its environmental impact analysis (AMDALl) to the provincial legislature and government in January, with pledges it would comply with the law in its mining activities and employ local residents at the site. (*)